Applications are open for the Blue Book Traineeship Programme for the March 2027 session, offering graduates and vocational education and training (VET) graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience within the European Commission and its agencies.

The five-month traineeship will run from 1 March to 31 July 2027 and provides hands-on exposure to EU policymaking, public administration and the work of European institutions. The programme also offers opportunities to contribute to areas such as environmental protection and climate action.

About the Blue Book Traineeship

The programme provides an international working environment where trainees can develop professional skills, gain insight into EU policymaking and administration, and build networks with people from different countries.

For the March 2027 session, applications are open from 22 July to 4 September 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Brussels time.

The European Commission says around 1,000 people participate in its five-month traineeships twice each year. The traineeships are paid, with the monthly living allowance adjusted according to the location of assignment. For March 2027, the indicative basic allowance for Belgium is €1,572 per month, before any applicable additional allowances.

What the Traineeship Offers

Successful trainees can expect to:

• Gain practical experience in EU policymaking and administration.
• Work in a multicultural and international environment.
• Develop professional and policy-related skills.
• Learn how European Commission departments and agencies operate.
• Build professional networks across Europe and beyond.
• Contribute to policy areas that may include climate, environment, communications, research, economics and other EU priorities.

Financial Support

The Blue Book Traineeship is a paid traineeship. The monthly grant varies according to the location of assignment.

Additional support may include:

• A general travel allowance.
• Meal and public transport support, depending on the assignment.
• Accommodation support in certain locations.
• Additional support for eligible trainees with disabilities.

Application Deadline

Programme: European Commission Blue Book Traineeship
Session: March 2027
Duration: 1 March – 31 July 2027
Duration: 5 months
Status: Paid
Application period: 22 July – 4 September 2026
Deadline: 4 September 2026, 10:00 a.m. Brussels time
Location: European Commission departments, agencies and bodies across the EU

Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline because applications received after the closing time will not be considered.